Public to vote on first new NASA space suit design for decades
07/04/2014
There have only been four major redesigns of the suits over the years and the latest version is an update of the Z-1 suit launched in 2012, which has been modified to make walking easier, as the Americans aim for another moon landing by 2020.
The Z-2 marks a number of firsts for the agency: the first surface-specific planetary mobility suit to be tested in full vacuum; the first use of 3D human laser scans and 3D-printed hardware for suit development and sizing; the most advanced use of impact resistant composite structures on a suit upper and lower torso system; the first integration of the suit-port concept with a hard upper torso suit structure; and the most conformal and resizeable hard upper torso suit built to date.
“After the positive response to the Z-1 suit's visual design we received, we wanted to take the opportunity to provide this new suit with an equally memorable appearance,” said the designers.
“The cover layer of a prototype suit is important as it serves to protect the suit against abrasion and snags during the rigors of testing. With the Z-2, we're looking forward to employing cover layer design elements never used in a spacesuit before."
The three designs were produced in collaboration with ILC, the primary suit vendor and Philadelphia University.
"Biomimicry" mirrors the bioluminescent qualities of aquatic creatures and reflects the qualities that protect some of earth's toughest creatures.
The "Technology" design uses Luminex wire and light-emitting patches..
Finally, the Trends in Society" suit is reflective of what every day clothes may look like in the not too distant future, according to the designers. This suit uses electroluminescent wire and a bright colour scheme to mimic the appearance of sportswear and the emerging world of wearable technologies.
The public can vote on three designs for updated he Z-2 via NASA’s website until April 15. The winner will go into production and testing for moon landings.
Image: An artist's impression of the Technology design
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